Jerry was born on May 11. 1942, in Leonardsburg, OH, to the late William R. Votaw and Ada Belle (Farley) Groves. He graduated with the class of 1960 from Elm Valley High School.

A jack of all trades, Jerry worked hard his entire life. Over the years he had worked for Dennison and PPG in Delaware. He also worked at Galion Iron Works and Perfection in Galion as well as for Culligan Water. Later in life he was self-employed as a plumber, painter, and owner of Relics Plus Antiques Shop in Marengo.

Jerry had a love for old country music. His record collection was abundant and his favorite artist was Hank Williams. Jerry also loved to collect Breyer horses, old coins, watches, knives, and baseball bats. Being a huge Red’s baseball fan, he always had to show off his Ted Kluszewski signed baseball bat. Jerry also enjoyed rooting for the Ohio State men’s and women’s basketball team.

With a gift to create, Jerry loved working in his woodshop where he crafted many different items for family and friends. He enjoyed being outdoors and loved raising rabbits and horses. Often Jerry could be found hunting for treasures at local flea markets and even found the greatest treasure of all, the love of his life at the flea market. He truly loved his children and grandchildren.

Jerry attended the Kilbourne United Methodist Church. He also was a previous member of the Eagles in Delaware and Scottish Rite of Marion. Throughout his life, Jerry loved playing baseball. He played on church leagues, the senior league, and even coached baseball as well.

He will be remembered for his ability to make friends, his jokester of a personality,his silly stories that he made up and everyone believed till the end, his love for his marionette puppet shows he’d put on for everyone at flea market, and his charming ways that made everyone fall in love with him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers: Larry, Richard, James “Eddie”, Gene, Donny, and Jack Votaw.

His family will greet friends from 5 to 7 PM on Thursday, July 11, 2019, at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel. (67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, OH 43338) A celebration of his life will be held there on Friday, July 12, 2019, at 1 PM with Hospice Chaplain Chris Plough officiating.

If desired memorial contributions may be made to The ALS Association. (1275 K Street NW, Suite 250, Washington, DC 20005)

Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead are honored to have been chosen to serve Jerry’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.

What a wonderful tribute to an obviously good man. Sounds like he loved life, never wishing to slow down. Just from hearing and following his health issue, he certainly was a brave man who fought with dignity and humor. He might not rest now since he loves being busy but he can be pain free now and mobile. He knows he was loved and Debbie, you were a wonderful role model to what relationships and marriage is about. My best you you and all the kids.
Connie Curry

Debbie, Katelyn, Andrew and Emily You are in my prayers and thoughts. I pray God will give you the strength to get through these trying days and weeks. Lord I come to you today to lift Debbie and the kids up to you. Lord I’m asking you to shelter them in your arms and give the strength that only you can give to them at this time. Lord let them know they are loved by you and will be there for you. All you have to do ask Him and He will be there for you. AMEN Love y’all !!

So sorry for your loss but so glad that Jerry is in the loving arms of his Savior and will have no more pain and suffering. Your unfailing, unconditional and unwavering love and care for Jerry throughout his entire life and into his last days is much admired and esteemed. I’m sure he knew more than ever just how truly loved he was by his friends and family. Prayers for you and your family as you adjust to your new life without Jerry, although his spirit and memories will always be close in your heart.

So sorry for your loss Debbie. I always enjoyed going to Relics Plus Antiques Shop in Marengo and seeing Jerry there. Loved his music he played in the shop for customers to hear while they shop. He would always put a smile on my face with the jokes and conversations he had with me. I loved to hear the story of how you guys met and got together. He was such a kind hearted man. Prayers for you and the children.